Lightsource bp announced that it has entered into a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Verizon Communications Inc. that will enable construction of a new 152.5 megawatt ac solar farm in Indiana, furthering Verizon’s goal of being carbon neutral in its operations (scope 1 and 2) by 2035. The Bellflower solar farm, located about 40 miles east of Indianapolis in Henry and Rush Counties, is expected to become operational in 2022. Solar projects can help strengthen local rural economies. Bellflower Solar is expected to generate $30 million in property tax revenue to Rush and Henry Counties over its life, benefiting local schools and other community public services. The project will create about 250 jobs during construction, with local labor and service requirements included in construction contracts. The operations budget for the project of $2.4 million each year will be primarily spent in the region. An action plan is underway for Bellflower Solar that aims to enhance local biodiversity. The plan is to create a pollinator friendly solar farm, designed in collaboration with ecology experts to restore and conserve pollinator habitat. The project will be part of pioneering university research on the benefits of co-locating pollinator habitat and solar installations.